World Agricultural Heritage
2026-01-08 07:55:21
Celebrating World Agricultural Heritage: A Special Ceremony and Exhibition
On February 5, 2024, the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries of Japan will hold a special ceremony to celebrate the recent designation of four Japanese regions as World Agricultural Heritage sites by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations. This momentous event acknowledges the importance of traditional agricultural practices and the unique cultural landscapes they create.
Overview of World Agricultural Heritage
World Agricultural Heritage is a recognition system by the FAO that honors areas engaged in globally significant traditional agricultural, forestry, and fishery practices. In July 2023, the Hyogo Bijoh Area and the Saitama Musashino Area were added to this prestigious list, followed by the Shimane Okuizumo Area and the Wakayama Arita and Shimizu Area in August 2024. These regions embody the essence of sustainable agriculture, preserving biodiversity, cultural heritage, and traditional knowledge for future generations.
The recognition ceremony will take place at the main auditorium of the Ministry's headquarters in Chiyoda, Tokyo, from 1:00 PM to 3:20 PM. The program will feature a welcoming address from the FAO, speeches from representatives of the recognized regions, and a keynote lecture by Professor Nobuyuki Yagi of the Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences at the University of Tokyo, emphasizing the significance of these designations.
Ceremony Schedule
12:00 PM - Doors Open
13:00 PM - Opening Remarks
13:10 PM - Address from FAO
13:20 PM - Speeches from Regional Representatives
13:30 PM - Group Photo Session
13:35 PM - 14:00 PM - Break
14:00 PM - Keynote Lecture by Professor Yagi
14:30 PM - Presentations from Recognized Regions
* 15:20 PM - Closing Remarks
During the break, attendees can explore a side event featuring regional exhibits, where they can see displays of local specialties from the newly recognized areas, showcasing their unique agricultural practices and products. This is an excellent opportunity to engage with local farmers and producers and learn about the heritage that defines these regions.
Registration Information
The event will accommodate around 70 participants on a first-come, first-served basis. Those interested in attending can register through the provided online form, ensuring that they fill out details for each participant. The registration deadline is set for January 29, 2024, at 6:00 PM. Participants will receive confirmation via email, while those unable to join due to capacity limits will be notified as well. Participants should arrive prepared for possible identity verification upon entry.
Note for Media Representatives:
The ceremony and side events will be open to the press, and media members wishing to cover the event must register using the same form, indicating their affiliation. They should also bring identification such as press credentials for verification at the venue.
Final Thoughts
This celebration not only recognizes Japan's significant agricultural practices but also raises awareness of the tradition and innovation that supports sustainable growth. By attending, participants will support the preservation of these unique ecosystems while enjoying a day of education and cultural exchange. Join us in honoring the rich agricultural legacy of Japan and the new hope it brings to sustainable farming practices worldwide.